New Delhi sources have stated that to ensure smooth
roll out of Goods and Service Tax, the Central Government has abolished
cesses on goods and services included in the last three General Budgets viz
2015-16, 2016-17 and 2017-18, and starting from July 1, 2017
with GST in place the government will also abolish cess on
automobiles. Through Taxation Laws Amendment Act 2017, The Industries
(Development and Regulation) Act 1951 Cess on Automobile will no longer be
applicable.

It was stated that the Central Government has taken this step in stages by
abolishing various cesses so that it is easier to fit in various goods and
services in different tax slabs for GST. Earlier, the Central Government in its
General Budget 2015-16 had abolished Education Cess.

Cess on Rubber has also been abolished. The last amendment of
the Rubber Act, 1947 empowered the Central Government to levy cess at a rate
not exceeding Rs2.00 per kilogram. But with GST, this also will no longer be
applicable.

American car maker GM winds up its domestic sales
New Delhi sources have stated that senior officials of General Motors, from Detroit and regional office in Singapore are here in India to finalize the India action plan. These officials reached on Tuesday and since then they have been deliberating on the situation and options for the company. The American car maker is likely to announce the next course of action for GM in India.